How to check a used car for flood damage | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Lisa Schiller, Better Business Bureau of Wisconsin
June 29, 2016
When buying a used car be on the lookout for rust. Rust inside the car is a strong indicator of water damage. (Photo by Rebecca Carballo)
When you’re looking for a used car, you might not think about checking for flood damage, since there’s not a lot of severe flooding in Milwaukee. However, cars sold here come from all over the country, so check for flood damage before you buy. Shady sellers may not divulge the car’s history.
According to the Department of Motor Vehicles, flood-damaged cars can be unreliable and sellers have an arsenal of supplies and tactics to dress up a used car, even it if has been severely damaged. Rebuilders may be able to hide most of the cosmetic damage done by floods, but it’s difficult to completely repair an engine after it has been flooded.
Here are some tips to help you determine if a car is flood damaged:
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